Brakes 91 Chevy Lumina Sedan

WKKT123

MEMBER
1991 CHEVROLET LUMINA
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
150,000 MILES

I have a 91 chevy lumina with some interesting brake problems. I went to change out the front set of brakes on the car. Completed the right front no problem significant wear on the pad but not grinding on the metal, rotor was good no grooves. I then moved over to the front left, took wheel off and to my surprise the brake shoes are good on this side. Took car out for a spin and still heard the noise indicator, this time I looked at the back brakes, right side was good, left side however is wore and needs to be replaced. What would cause this, as I have never ran into a problem like this before. About three or four years ago I replaced the back set of brakes on both sides, I also replaced both of the calipers as they would not go back in with the special tool. I bled the lines back then and everything seemed to be working fine. One other thing that I noticed as I pondered my situation was that the emergency brake is also not working properly, on this car you are supposed to pump the brake for it to set however it will not pump up and set, I didn't even need to use the brake release lever on them, I simply lifted the e-brake arm with my foot.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

The park brake should self adjust when you use the brakes, so it sounds like you are doing it right. As far as the uneven brake pads, make sure the front caliper isn't sticking. Also, often times the rubber brake hoses that attach to the caliper will break down inside and allow fluid to pass one way, but when you take your foot off the brake pedal, they don't allow it to return (release). If the caliper piston isn't pushing in properly, loosten the bleeder valve and see if it pushes in easily. If it does, replace the rubber hose. This problem will cause uneven brake wear.